Legends of Opera

Leyla Gencer

Leyla Gencer, frequently "La Diva Turca" (The Turkish Diva) and "La Regina" (The Queen) in the opera world, was a notable bel canto operatic soprano who spent most of her career in Italy, from the early 1950s through the mid-1980s.

She had a repertoire encompassing more than seventy roles.

Although she made very few commercial recordings, numerous bootleg recordings of her performances have come to light over the years and she has often been referred to as "the Queen of the Pirates". In particular, Leyla Gencer was associated with the heroines of Donizetti.

Pictured, Leyla Gencer in the title role of Aida.

Leyla Gencer is one of the featured stars on our "Legends" product range.